Whistler - Ho-Hum (1975) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Deram
Country: UK
Released: 1975
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Whistler: A Deep Dive into "Ho-Hum"

Released in 1975 under the Deram label, "Ho-Hum" marks a unique entry in the UK rock and soft rock scene. Whistler, a British studio project, revolves around the collaborative efforts of songwriters John Chuter, George Howe, and Ant Grout-Smith. Unlike traditional bands, Whistler employed a rotating cast of accomplished session musicians to create their sound. This approach allowed for a diverse range of influences and styles to permeate the album.

Collaboration with Session Musicians

The album features a lineup of well-known UK session players. Drummers Clem Cattini, Barry Morgan, and Douggie Wright, all established figures in the UK music scene, contributed their talents to the project. Pedal steel guitarist Gordon Huntley, primarily recognized for his work with Matthews' Southern Comfort, adds depth to the sound. Flutist Jimmy Hastings, noted for his contributions to Caravan, appears on select tracks, enhancing the album's melodic texture. Additionally, guitarist Eric Bell, who was the original guitarist in Thin Lizzy, lends his skills to the record.

Songwriting and Production

John Chuter's songwriting is prominent throughout the album. Tracks like "Help Me," "Hello Lady," and "Blind Leading The Blind" showcase a blend of rock rhythms and soft rock melodies. The production, handled by Peter Johnson, aims to capture the essence of the era while providing a polished sound. Backing vocalists Doris Troy and Lisa Strike, featured on "I Can't Believe My Eyes," add an extra layer of vocal harmony. Both artists later gained recognition for their work on Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon."

Musical Variety

"Ho-Hum" demonstrates a range of musical styles, from the upbeat tempo of "City Boy" to the contemplative nature of "See What The Future Brings." Each track brings its own flavor, thanks to the varied instrumentation and arrangements. The album's use of keyboards, guitars, and brass instruments reflects the eclectic influences of its contributors.

Technical Details

The engineering of "Ho-Hum" was managed by David Grinsted, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. The album was released in a vinyl format, making it a collectible item for enthusiasts of 1970s rock. With its blend of talent and creative songwriting, Whistler's "Ho-Hum" captures a distinctive moment in the evolution of British music.

Whistler's "Ho-Hum" was recorded in 1975 and released on vinyl by Deram.

Tracklist

A1	Help Me Drums – Barry MorganPercussion – Tony CarrWritten-By – Chuter*
A2	Hello Lady Drums – Clem CattiniWritten-By – Chuter*
A3	I Can't Believe My Eyes Drums – Barry MorganVoice – Doris TroyVoice – Lisa StrikeWritten By – DavisWritten-By – Chuter
A4	City Boy Drums – Clem CattiniWritten-By – Howe*
A5	Blind Leading The Blind Drums – Clem CattiniWritten By – DavisWritten-By – Howe*
A6	Machine Drums – Douggie WrightSteel Guitar [Pedal] – Gordon HuntleyWritten-By – Howe
B1	See The Wheels Are Turning Drums – Douggie WrightWritten-By – Chuter
B2	Whenever Drums – Douggie WrightFlute – Jimmy HastingsWritten By – DavisWritten-By – Howe
B3	Do It For Mother Drums – Douggie WrightWritten By – DavisWritten-By – Howe
B4	Blind Man Drums – Clem CattiniWritten-By – Chuter*
B5	Nothing At All Drums – Barry MorganWritten-By – Chuter*
B6	See What The Future Brings Drums – Barry MorganElectric Guitar – Eric BellWritten-By – Chuter*